Given Covid-19 and its impact emotionally, physically, socially, financially, and professionally, many have questions about what is defined as typical behavior and when they need to reach out for help. Everyone reacts differently to stress. Individuals with preexisting mental health conditions or substance use disorders, or who are at higher risk for illness due to Covid-19, may be particularly vulnerable during this pandemic. Having a diagnosed mental health condition can affect a person’s thinking, feeling, mood, or behavior as well as their functioning.

So, when should you consider seeking professional help for your mental health? When you notice feelings of isolation and loneliness, an increase in worry and anxiety, feeling down or depressed, or notice changes in your appetite or eating — then it would be a good idea to consider reaching out to a professional. Also, you may notice an increase in your alcohol or drug use, or find yourself feeling unmotivated or having trouble concentrating. 

Ariyanna White, clinical case manager at the Center for Assessment, Referral, and Education (CARE), had this to share: “If you find yourself asking the question, that’s a strong cue that you should be seeking help. Taking care of your mental health may include getting an assessment to learn more about your mental health concerns, but that's only the start in supporting your mental health. There are several resources in our community to help with social isolation, motivation, self-confidence, or just managing stress. We can help students get connected with these resources when they come to CARE.”  

Here are some additional resources and tips on managing and supporting your mental health during the pandemic:

• Students should call CARE at 404.894.3498 for an appointment and referral to numerous on- and off-campus resources and services.
• Staff should contact the Employee Assistance Program at https://health-and-wellbeing.gatech.edu/eap.
• Georgia Tech Health Initiatives is providing one-hour virtual workshops, "Well-Being Weekly," for faculty, staff, and students.

1. “Mindful Mondays” at 4 p.m.: mindfulness meditations.
2. TEDxTALK Tuesday at noon: 15-minute Ted Talks and discussion over lunch.
3. Well-Being Wednesday at 2 p.m.: Wellness trivia on a variety of topics.
4. VOICE Message Thursday at 1 p.m.: Sexual violence prevention presentations and discussions.
5. Register for these virtual workshops at: https://gatech.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_5tezK2QuRgEixtH

• Limit exposure to news media: Constant exposure can be traumatizing and heighten fear. 
• Stay in touch with important people who matter to you most: Make an effort to text someone or call someone close to you when you feel isolated or lonely. 

• Get regular physical activity: Research has proven that this will improve your mood and lower anxiety. There are a lot of free exercise apps to help you get into a routine. Get outside and go for a run or a nature walk (while practicing physical distancing), or schedule time at the CRC. http://crc.gatech.edu/virtual-fitness

• Focus on positive thoughts: Consider keeping a journal and writing about the positive things that are happening in your life each day. Do a good deed for someone or for yourself and write it down in your journal. Keep a journal of and list things you are thankful for to maintain a sense of hope in these trying times. 

Center for Assessment, Referral, and Education (CARE)

404.894.3498

www.care.gatech.edu